Whether you’re into Zumba, running, hot yoga, spinning or boxing, working out can take a toll on curls and waves, causing frizz and oil build up. Exercise makes us feels great and does wonders for our bodies and brains, however it doesn’t always do too many wonders for our tresses. And while your hair may pay a price for getting healthy, it should, of course, never stop you from staying healthy.

Like most women, we sweat when our heart rate gets elevated, some more than others. If your workout takes places outside, then you may also encounter some of the elements like wind and sun as well, which could also be harmful to curls.

Here are a few tips to consider for your curly workouts:

Weatherproof your hair

Stay true to your natural texture, therefore, stay away from flat ironing and blow outs as the weather and the workout won’t be kind to your hair afterwards. Try to use a small amount of leave-in conditioner and gel that works with your hairtype. If you do end up sweating, you won’t have a lot of droop in your hair since there’s not much product in it to begin with.

The up-do

It’s a must to have a few good hair ties or cotton head bands in your work out bag. Hair can distract your workout when it flops into your eyes! This can also lead to more frizz. Use hair ties or head bands that are comfortable, and not too tight. Pile your curls up loosely so as not to cause breakage. If pieces don’t fit,use some bobby pins or a pretty clip to keep them at bay.

For Long Hair

If you have long curls or waves, try a braid - it’s a great way to keep your hair out of your face, and, afterwards, you just may find that you have some great looking loops and texture when you remove the braid!

The product line up

There are lots of products that may work just great for our curls, but combined with workouts, they may change in time. To start: use a gentle, but cleansing, shampoo and conditioner like Suave ,VO5 or DevaCurl to wash and hydrate your curls since they’ll need some suds and moisture. Try to leave your conditioner in for an extra 5-8 minutes when showering too. Finish with a cold water rinse.

Next, go for a light styling gel, serum or creme (depending on your hair type).A few to try come from: Living Proof, Redken Slim Supreme, Suave Gel, LA Looks Curl Gel, Noodle Head creme. When applying products, go lighter than usual, and don’t apply too many. If you normally use a leave-in conditioner, use less. You don’t want too much build up to occur as you work out.

Air dry

After a workout, and a shower, it’s best to let hair dry naturally. If you can, allow it to dry on it’s own. Use a satin pillowcase so as not to damage curls as you sleep. If you must dry your hair, use a diffuser and try to dry no more than 40% dry.